Oldsmobile 98 (5th generation)
The chrome-laden pinnacle of Oldsmobile's mid-century opulence.
- Power
- 277 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 11.0 s
- Top speed
- 110 mph
- Est. value
- $25k–$120k
About the Oldsmobile 98
The 1957 Oldsmobile 98, officially branded as the Starfire 98 for this model year, represented the peak of the division's luxury and engineering. It introduced the enlarged 371 cubic-inch 'Rocket' V8, a significant jump in displacement that provided the effortless torque required for its substantial 2.1-tonne kerb weight. While competitors embraced the tail-fin craze, Oldsmobile opted for a more restrained 'strato-roof' design and a distinctive three-piece rear window. The 98 rode on a longer 126-inch wheelbase than the 88 series, offering a more composed, boulevard-oriented ride quality typical of 1950s American flagships.
Oldsmobile 98 specs
The Oldsmobile 98 produces 277 bhp (207 kW) and 542 Nm (400 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 11.0 seconds and has a top speed of 110 mph (177 km/h).
| Make | Oldsmobile |
|---|---|
| Model | 98 |
| Generation | Fifth Generation (5th generation) |
| Trim | Starfire 98 |
| Years | 1957–1958 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 79,693 built |
| Original price | About $3,800 when new |
| Engine | 6.1-litre Rocket V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,076 cc (6.1 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 277 bhp (207 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 542 Nm (400 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 11.0 s |
| Top speed | 110 mph (177 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed Jetaway Hydra-Matic automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,153 kg (4,747 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 129 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Oldsmobile 98 worth?
A typical Oldsmobile 98 is estimated to be worth $25,000 – $120,000 (about £19,000 – £89,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,800.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Oldsmobile 98 rarity in CarSpot
The Oldsmobile 98 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 56 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Oldsmobile 98 fun facts
- For 1957, the 98 was officially named the 'Starfire 98', a name previously reserved only for the convertible trim.
- It was one of the first production cars to offer a completely transistorised signal-seeking radio as an optional extra.
- The 1957 model year saw Oldsmobile move to 14-inch wheels to lower the car's profile by two inches compared to the 1956 models.
